Maharashtra orders uninterrupted free foodgrain for eligible beneficiaries in 265 drought-hit talukas
The state government has directed that foodgrain supply continue smoothly in 265 talukas where drought trigger-1 has been applied, with portability and new enrolments.
Images are not validated/verified
Mumbai: The state government has directed that foodgrain supply to eligible beneficiaries be kept smooth in the 265 talukas where drought "trigger-1" has been applied. The trigger was applied in these talukas between June and September 2026 on account of deficient rainfall and other factors. The Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection Department has issued a government resolution to this effect.
Under the National Food Security Act, 2013, eligible beneficiaries receive free foodgrain within the target set by the Centre. Necessary steps have been ordered so that beneficiaries of the scheme in the 265 drought-affected talukas get their grain without delay.
Because of the drought, farm labourers and ordinary people may move to urban, semi-urban or other areas in search of work or water. Keeping this possibility in view, the order says portability under "One Nation One Ration Card" must be strictly enforced. Eligible beneficiaries who migrate will be able to take their grain from any convenient ration shop, not just the one assigned to them.
New beneficiaries will also be added. If people who are not covered by the National Food Security scheme ask for free grain in the drought-affected talukas, action has been ordered to include them in the Antyodaya Anna Yojana or the priority household category, within the prescribed criteria, income limits and available target. Officials have also been told to complete Aadhaar seeding for all members of a ration card and to give them grain immediately.
The government has also stressed curbing black marketing. Officials concerned have been asked to plan in advance so that lifting and distribution of grain are completed within the stipulated time. The government has further directed that care be taken to prevent black marketing, illegal hoarding or any other irregularity in foodgrain.
Meanwhile, amid the severe drought conditions in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on Wednesday. The meeting discussed the drought situation in the state, the help being extended to farmers and the financial assistance needed from the Centre.
